PREPARING TO WELCOME A NEW BABY IN THE FAMILY
Tell other children soon after learning a baby is coming.
Always refer to “OUR” baby
Include the children in the planning for the baby.
Show the children ultra sound photos and listen to heartbeat.
Have children help pick out furniture, baby things

AFTER BABY COMES
Have children help whenever possible- get diapers, a book to read, blanket
When feeding baby bring other children and read a story
Let children sit on couch with baby, hold baby, sing to baby
Keep baby in cradle, crib/pack in living room or wherever the family is.
Help children enjoy having a new sibling in the family

BEFORE YOU GO
Discuss activities that each person would like to do while away
Make a plan for each day of vacation remembering the activities discussed above.
Discuss what will be needed. Take only what is needed.
Children are responsible for their own possessions and clothing.

GETTING READY THE DAY BEFORE
Get out suitcases, backpacks or what will be packed
Prepare clean clothing as discussed, put in piles on bed, ok by parent
Organize toiletries
Make sure proper paperwork is ready, identification, tickets, passports
Check electronics for chargers, cases, games.
PACK to be sure everything will fit.
Close suitcases and put by front door.

Select decorations the children can use that are unbreakable
Plan with the children what will be done each day to prepare for the holiday
Engage the children in the preparations of the meal.
Give each one a particular job.
Find activities that can be done for others.
Make a shopping list with everyone’s input for special holiday foods.
Keep rituals that are done yearly. Singing carols, putting up lights, decorate the tree, making cookies, wrapping gifts